Shiv Sena Demands Termination of Turkish Firm Çelebi’s Contract at Mumbai Airport Over National Security Concerns: 15 May

Shiv Sena Demands Termination of Turkish Firm: Amid India-Pakistan Tensions, Sena Alleges Turkey’s Drone Support to Pakistan Poses a Threat; Gives 10-Day Ultimatum to Mumbai Airport

The Shiv Sena has escalated its stance against Turkish ground-handling company Çelebi NAS Airport Services, demanding an immediate termination of its contract at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA). The party cites national security concerns, accusing Turkey of supporting Pakistan with military drones used against India.

Shiv Sena leader Murji Patel led a delegation to Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), issuing a 10-day ultimatum to cancel Çelebi’s contract, failing which the party has threatened protests.

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Why is Çelebi Under Fire?

1. Turkey-Pakistan Drone Allegations
   • Patel stated, “Turkey may not be firing weapons directly, but supplying drones used to target our borders is no less than a hostile act.”
   • The demand follows social media calls to boycott Turkish businesses after reports of Ankara’s military assistance to Pakistan.
2. National Security Concerns
   • The Sena argues that a firm from a country aiding India’s adversary should not profit from Indian infrastructure.
   • The airport’s CEO has reportedly assured a review and will respond within the deadline.

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Who is Çelebi Aviation?

• Headquartered in Istanbul, Çelebi is a major global player in airport ground-handling, operating in 6 countries and 70 stations worldwide.
• In India since 2008, it manages 70% of ground operations at key airports, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.
• Key Stats:
  • Handles 58,000 flights annually.
  • Manages 5,40,000 tons of cargo.
  • Employs 7,800 staff in India.

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Past Opposition & Political Backlash

• Aviation consultant Sanjay Lazar recalled that Shiv Sena had opposed Çelebi’s entry even post-26/11 attacks, citing security risks.
• The firm secured clearance under the UPA government, but critics allege it downplays its Turkish ownership by highlighting private equity stakes.

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Can Mumbai Airport Replace Çelebi Quickly?

• A Mumbai airport official (anonymous) admitted that a sudden boycott is difficult since only Indigo has its own ground staff.
• “It takes time—airlines may be in talks, but Çelebi has a massive presence,” the official said.

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What’s Next?

• MIAL’s decision in 10 days will determine if protests escalate.
• Çelebi has not yet responded to media queries.
• The controversy adds to growing India-Turkey tensions, fueled by Ankara’s pro-Pakistan stance.

The Shiv Sena’s ultimatum puts Mumbai airport in a tight spot—balancing operational logistics against rising nationalist sentiment. With boycott trends gaining momentum, the aviation sector watches closely to see if India cuts ties with the Turkish giant.

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